Anti-cancer mechanisms of natural isoflavones against melanoma

Abstract

The incidence of skin-related neoplasms has generally increased in recent years. Melanoma arises from malignant mutations in melanocytes in the basal layer of the epidermis and is a fatal skin cancer that seriously threatens human health. Isoflavones are polyphenolic compounds widely present in legumes and have drawn scientists' attention, because they have good efficacy against a variety of cancers, including melanoma, without significant toxic side effects and resistance. In this review article, we summarize the research progress of isoflavones in melanoma, including anti-melanoma roles and mechanisms of isoflavones via inhibition of tyrosinase activity, melanogenesis, melanoma cell growth, invasion of melanoma cells, and induction of apoptosis in melanoma cells. This information is important for the prevention, clinical treatment, and prognosis and survival of melanoma.

Keywords: Invasion; Isoflavones; Melanoma; Molecular mechanisms; Proliferation.

Fig. 1

Isoflavones reduce melanogenesis. Isoflavones such as genistein and calycosin reduce melanogenesis by decreasing tyrosinase activity and reducing in melanin content.

Fig. 2

Anti-melanoma roles of isoflavones through the regulation of different signaling pathways. By inhibiting the binding of α-MSH to its receptor MC1R, isoflavones attenuate the activation of three major MAKP signaling pathways including p38, JNK, and ERK signaling, increase reactive oxygen species, promote tumor cell apoptosis, and reduce the activity of tyrosinase, thereby reducing the production of melanin and achieving anti-tumor effects on melanoma.